School of Health Sciences
Step Into the Operating Room
with a Surgical Technology Degree
Ready to work side by side with surgeons in one of healthcare’s most critical environments? The Surgical Technology Associate Degree program at Rockford Career College blends lab practice, clinical experience, and classroom instruction to help you develop the precision and confidence needed for the operating room. If you thrive under pressure, enjoy technical work, and want to play a vital role in patient care, this program could be your path forward.
Through personalized instruction, hands-on externship experience, and mentorship from faculty with real-world surgical expertise, you’ll gain the practical and professional skills needed to assist in surgical procedures. You’ll learn how to support operating room teams and ensure patient safety throughout all phases of surgery—preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative.
This is a demanding field that requires precision, focus, and dedication, but it also offers the opportunity to make a meaningful impact every day in a high-stakes healthcare environment.
DURATION: 18 Months
CREDENTIALS: Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.)
FORMAT: Blended
CREDITS: 102 quarter credit hours
Prepare for high-demand surgical tech careers in hospitals, outpatient surgical centers, and specialized healthcare facilities.
Surgical Tech Skills Training for Real Operating Room Success
Gain the core surgical technology skills needed to support surgeons, maintain sterile environments, and assist with critical procedures in real operating rooms. Through a combination of classroom instruction, lab simulations, and clinical externships, you’ll develop the confidence and hands-on experience to step into your surgical tech career from day one.
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What You’ll Learn
By the end of the program, you’ll be prepared to walk into your first surgical tech role with the confidence that comes from real experience. It’s not just about learning—it’s about doing.
Explore Surgical Technologist Careers in Healthcare
Surgical technologists are essential members of the surgical team, responsible for maintaining sterile environments, preparing instruments, and assisting during procedures to ensure patient safety and surgical efficiency. Graduates of Rockford Career College’s program are equipped with the technical skills and clinical knowledge needed to thrive in high-demand healthcare environments throughout Illinois and beyond.
Whether working in busy hospital operating rooms or specialized surgical centers, you’ll be prepared to begin a rewarding career where precision, teamwork, and dedication make a difference—every single day.
Graduates of the Surgical Technology program may pursue roles such as:
You’re ready to do something different — let’s take the next step together.
At Rockford Career College, we believe that everyone deserves a chance to build a better future. That’s why our admissions process is designed to be clear, supportive, and all about helping you succeed — from your very first conversation with us.
To be eligible for enrollment, students must:
Every applicant will meet with an admissions advisor to: help answer your questions, walk you through the process, and help you determine if this is the right path for your goals and lifestyle.
We’re looking for students who are:
Flexible. Focused. Built for real life.
Most programs are blended, combining scheduled on-campus classes with online coursework. This gives you the hands-on training you need — plus the flexibility to complete assignments at home.
You’ll typically take two classes every five weeks and should plan for 12–15 hours per week of homework and studying. Instructors also offer live virtual office hours for extra support.
Whether you’re working, parenting, or have other commitments — we’ll help make school work for you.
Q: Do I need previous healthcare experience?
No experience is necessary. The program is designed to train students from the ground up, starting with the basics of medical terminology and anatomy.
Q: What are the admissions requirements?
Applicants must have a high school diploma or GED, complete an application, and take a digital readiness assessment. Additional screenings may be required for externship eligibility.
Q: Will I be ready for certification?
Yes. Graduates are eligible to take the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) exam through the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA).
Q: Can I work while attending the program?
Some students do work part-time, but the schedule is intensive. We recommend talking to an advisor to create a realistic plan.
Next Session Starts: October 13, 2025
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the number of jobs in Illinois for Surgical Technologist is expected to increase by 3% between 2023 and 2033.1
Questions about our Rockford campus? Let’s connect and talk about your future.
Get In touch
See our classrooms, meet our staff, and imagine yourself in a career that matters.
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1 https://www.onetonline.org/link/localtrends/29-2055.00?st=IL, retrieved on 8/21/2025.
What Sets Our Surgical Technology Program Apart
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the number of jobs in Illinois for Surgical Technologist is expected to increase by 3% between 2023 and 2033.1
Questions about our Rockford campus? Let’s connect and talk about your future.
Get in Touch
See our classrooms, meet our staff, and imagine yourself in a career that matters.
Book Your Campus Tour
The Surgical Technology program is programmatically accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES). Prior to graduation, all students will be eligible to take the CST examination offered through the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting.
Rockford Career College offers financial aid for those who qualify, and our financial aid team will walk you through every option available—so you can focus on building your career.
Rockford Career College
(A Branch Campus of Stautzenberger College-Maumee)
1130 S Alpine Rd #100,
Rockford, IL 61108
Phone: (815) 965-8616
or (888) 680-6682
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